The Best Rappers Who Started On SoundCloud
Update: Dive into the best new hip hop with our list of 2020's top rap songs.
A surprising amount of underground rappers, including some of the best emo rap artists, who went mainstream first found an audience on the German-based audio distribution platform known as SoundCloud. With so many new technologies that allow anyone to upload work for an audience, many independent filmmakers, singer/songwriters, authors, and other artistic types are able to gain a following without the assistance of agents, producers, or publishers. Some of the best underground rappers were able to forgo any kind of formal representation and get their voices into the world via SoundCloud. So, who are the best SoundCloud rappers?
Featuring mainstream rappers who were discovered on SoundCloud, like Lil Yachty and Lil Uzi Vert, and up-and-coming SoundCloud rappers, like Lil Pump and 6ix9ine, this list of good SoundCloud rappers also includes Ski Mask the Slump God, Russ, Smokepurpp, Trippie Redd, and Ugly God. Don't forget about female SoundCloud rappers Rico Nasty, Asian Doll, and Kodie Shane.
The best SoundCloud rappers vary in terms of the type of art they produce, but all of them created a unique sound that allowed them to become famous. There are white SoundCloud rappers, like Post Malone, who rose to fame after uploading a single song that took off. Other rappers who started on SoundCloud had small followings when they began posting their music online, and gained fame quickly when their work reached a broader audience. Bryson Tiller, for example, had a fan base from a 2011 mix tape but his popularity sailed after he uploaded a song to SoundCloud in 2015.
Which rappers discovered on SoundCloud do you like best? Vote your favorite artists to the top of the list.
- 1All Girls Are The Same, Lucid Dreams
- Genres (Music): Hip hop, Emo rap, Alternative R&B
Few artists have been able to bridge the gap between hip-hop and emo as seamlessly as Juice WRLD. Bursting onto the scene with heart-wrenching hits like "Lucid Dreams" and "All Girls Are The Same," the late rapper proved his ability to connect with listeners through emotionally charged lyrics and haunting melodies. Never shying away from vulnerability, Juice WRLD's meteoric rise to stardom serves as a testament to his undeniable talent and impact on SoundCloud and beyond.
- 2Bad Vibes Forever, 17, Revenge
- Genres (Music): Emo rap
A trailblazer in the emo-rap subgenre, XXXTentacion captivated audiences with his raw, brutally honest lyrics and captivating melodies. Rising to prominence with tracks like "Look at Me!" and "Jocelyn Flores," the late rapper displayed an unmatched versatility in his music, often blending genres and pouring his heart into every song. Though his career was marred by controversy, there's no denying that XXXTentacion left an indelible mark on SoundCloud and the rap world as a whole.
- 3Luv Is Rage 2, Luv Is Rage 1.5, 1017 vs. The World
- Genres (Music): Hip hop, Trap, Cloud rap, Emo hip hop
A true disruptor in the hip-hop landscape, Lil Uzi Vert first gained attention with his electrifying bangers "Money Longer" and "You Was Right." Fusing trap beats with punk rock-inspired melodies, the Philadelphia native has amassed a legion of dedicated fans drawn to his genre-defying sound and charismatic persona. From SoundCloud beginnings to now dominating the mainstream, Lil Uzi Vert has established himself as a force to be reckoned with.
- 4You Will Regret, Members Only, Vol. 1
- Genres (Music): hip hop, trap, punk rap, SoundCloud rap, meme rap
The innovative flow and distinctive style of Ski Mask The Slump God quickly set him apart from other SoundCloud rappers. Characterized by his high-energy delivery and off-kilter, pop culture references, the Florida native climbed the ranks with tracks like "Catch Me Outside" and "Babywipe." His dynamic collaborations with artists like XXXTentacion further cemented his status as one of the most intriguing and exciting talents to emerge from the SoundCloud rap wave.
- 5Owl Pharaoh
- Genres (Music): Hip hop
From his earliest days on SoundCloud, it was apparent that Travis Scott was destined for greatness. With a visionary approach to production and an undeniable knack for crafting infectious hooks, the Houston native quickly gained acclaim for projects like Owl Pharaoh and Days Before Rodeo. Today, Travis Scott is a global powerhouse, filling arenas and curating massive festivals, all while staying true to the experimental nature that first won over his SoundCloud fans.
At once menacing and captivating, the music of 21 Savage quickly grabbed the attention of SoundCloud listeners with its dark, gritty sound and uncompromising lyrics. Tracks like "Red Opps" and "No Heart" showcased the Atlanta rapper's ability to tap into the raw emotions of street life, while collaborations with artists like Metro Boomin solidified his status as a major force in the hip-hop world. Clearly, 21 Savage's rise to fame is a testament to the power of authenticity and originality.
